WILD RIVER STORM GEARS UP FOR SIXTH SEMI-PRO FOOTBALL SEASON

Published Nov 19, 2008 at 12:00AM / Updated Feb 13, 2016 at 06:24PM

The Wild River Storm are ready to get their 2009 campaign underway. The first act of their sixth season is a general interest meeting at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at the Pizza King restaurant in Crescent City, Calif.

The Storm - a semi-professional football team located in Crescent City and member of the Oregon Football League - are looking for players.

This isn't flag football either. The games are full-contact and the competition is tough, according to Storm Board President Chip Bradley.

Bradley also said playing semi-pro ball is a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

andquot;It's a blast to play at this level,andquot; he said. andquot;For all those who walked off the field in high school or college and said 'This is the last time I'm going to get to play football,' it's a chance to play again.andquot;

Practices are slated to begin in early January and will be held Saturday afternoons on the Del Norte High School practice field, located at 1301 El Dorado Street in Crescent City.

The league is designed to give players of a variety of skill levels the chance to play. Additionally, players who think they have a shot at the next level can get more experience and exposure.

andquot;We even had two players go to Spain to play professionally,andquot; Bradley said.

Players from other teams in the League have also moved on to the Arena League and division 1A colleges.

And for those who simply want to play with no greater expectations, Bradley said the team offers a positive environment for people to get together.

andquot;Win or lose, we go out to dinner after a game,andquot; he said. andquot;It's really a bonding experience when you play side-by-side with someone, and you're bleeding and struggling together.andquot;

andquot;There's a camaraderie you just can't get anywhere else.andquot;

Bradley also noted that playing in the League offers a great release.

andquot;You don't think about anything else while you're out there,andquot; he said. andquot;For the three of four hours you're playing, it's just you and your brothers.andquot;

Those interested in being a member of the Storm are encouraged to attend the meeting, or, if unable to do so, contact Bradley at (541) 698-8113.